Downtown Aquarium - Denver is seeking a dynamic, energetic professional that desires a great opportunity in a growing company. Our aquarium is a 1.125 million gallon, 107,000 sq.ft. facility of aquatic and terrestrial exhibits with over 8,000 fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals and invertebrates represented in a collection of approximately 600 species.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position involves husbandry and training of all mammals, birds and program animals in the collection. Currently the collection includes, but is not limited to, Sumatran tigers, North American River Otters, exhibit birds, an African Serval, an African Crested Porcupine, raptors, and a variety of reptiles. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Curator and Assistant Curator of Mammals, Birds and Program Animals. Trainer II’s participate in proper care of the animal collection, including environmental requirements, nutrition, the maintenance and appearance of all exhibits and holding areas, enrichment, formal and informal public presentations, and record keeping. Applicant must be highly motivated and be willing to work flexible hours, which may include nights, weekends, and holidays.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

High School diploma or equivalent. College degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science or related field and 3 years training experience with focus on operant conditioning or a combination of previous that provide the required education and experience. Able to demonstrate experience in accepted husbandry skills, including; animal handling/transport, acclimation and care, management of safety protocols, quarantine and clinical treatments, behavioral and environmental enrichment. Must be organized, self-motivated, with desire to see completion of projects. Certified SCUBA diver preferable, must be a swimmer and must be able to become a certified diver in 90 days. Must have valid drivers license and reliable transportation. Must be self-motivated, with high desire to provide the best care available to animals. Must be observant. Must work with other employees in a polite, patient manner. Must be able to handle all collection animals or if new hire, learn to handle all collection animals.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Subject to possibility of bites, stings. Work in water, both man- made and natural. Heavy lifting (50 pounds or more), walking and working within a wet environment. Outdoor work on occasion, under variety of conditions: cold weather, hot weather, rain, mud, and dry land. Work with large carnivores – in a protected contact environment.